Howe thrilled to be back racing, winning

Saturday night will be a night of reflection at Riverhead Raceway, with the running of the Baldwin, Evans, Jarzombek Memorial Modified race. But for Don Howe, last week was truly Throwback Saturday.

The 59-year-old from Water Mill earned the checkered flag in his No. 2 Chevy in the 35-lap modified event -- his first win since June 1996.

"It was a pick-me-up because it lets me know I'm still able to compete," Howe said. "Racing has made me feel young again."

Howe, one of three drivers to win five modified titles at Riverhead along with Wayne Anderson and Charlie Jarzombek, took 15 years off to spend time with his two young daughters.

It's a decision Howe said he's glad he made, but he's excited to be back on the track.

Last Saturday was his 28th career win, which coincidentally tied him for ninth all time with J.R. Bertuccio, son of Howe's car owner Joe Bertuccio.

Those are two of the few faces Howe still remembers from the old days. "I don't know who some of these young guys are out here," he said. "So it can be a challenge for me."

Still, racing an abbreviated schedule this season, Howe has five top 10s in six races and is tied for 14th in the season points race with 146. Howe said of his success: "I never expected it."

So don't be surprised if Saturday night is yet another Throwback Saturday.